Taco Bell Opens in Flemington
By Lou Bernard
FLEMINGTON- A new Taco Bell has opened in Flemington. The business held a soft opening—Some have referred to it as the “Soft-taco opening”—On Saturday, December 28.
A large and enthusiastic crowd greeted the newly opened business. Bill Crowell, Lock Haven photographer, was the first customer to make a purchase from the business. Crowell said that he had been waiting for the opportunity to eat at a Taco Bell in the area since 1996, when he was a college student at Lock Haven University. Crowell had a Burrito Supreme meal with a Mountain Dew, chatted with staff, and took a photo of the new staff on their first day.
Construction began for the new building in early fall. Reese’s Print Shop downtown printed the plans for the new building for the construction company, Charter Central LLC. The idea of a Taco Bell has been discussed in the Lock Haven area since at least the 1990s, with many citizens weighing in. At least twice petitions have circulated the community and been signed by fans of the chain.
The opening was better than well-attended, with much of the community turning out to enjoy the food and show their appreciation. Cars lined High Street in an excited attempt to get through the drive-thru. Within the next 24 hours, the Goodwill Hose Company issued a statement on social media asking people to be careful in the area to avoid any accidents.
Representatives from Taco Bell refused comment when asked about the business’s opening. Posts online requested customers to be patient with the staff, as they are all new and it’s been a very busy first few days.
Charter Central LLC attended a meeting of the Flemington Zoning Board back in the spring to discuss the idea for the new building on the site that previously had been Sears. The company received approval and a variance regarding the parking. Trinity Holdings, LLC, a parent company based in Tennessee, purchased the property soon after. Demolition of the Sears and construction of the Taco Bell began in September. Currently, the Taco Bell is still hiring.
This Taco Bell now replaces the Williamsport site as the closest one to Lock Haven, giving Clinton County citizens a chance to get the food without as much of a drive.
The new Taco Bell, at this writing, had no reviews online yet. However, without a doubt, those are on the way. The Taco Bell has a Facebook page, and can be reached at 570-858-0637.
